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One of the really fun parts of my business is that I get to create and help people in lots of different ways. A goal I had set for myself for 2017 was to begin a virtual styling service. A couple of weeks ago, though, I had someone approach me from out-of-state asking for some help restyling her family room, so I figured now is as good a time as any to begin!

Just like anything I do, I'm jumping in head first and backwards on this. I don't have fancy computer software to layout the space or neat-o graphing paper to create scaled models of the furniture and accessories. What I do have is a can-do spirit and a phone that allows me to take and send pictures and videos galore.

I've been exchanging texts and pictures with my client discussing how we can create the look she wants for her family room, but today's topic definitely warrants a video...because who doesn't l.o.v.e. to hear their recorded voices?! We've been talking furniture placement most recently; she sent me a picture last night showing exactly what I had asked her to do with her chairs, a side table, and lamp. She's using a lot of items she already owns (yay!), but purchased a table lamp for the space, since she didn't currently own one. The only caveat is that the side table she's using + the lamp are just too short in competition with the chairs.

Never fear...I have a plan. I told her I would send a mock-up of the space in the morning (because, obviously, I was already snuggled into the couch...done being productive for the day). Cut to this morning and me shooting a poorly-lit video with my voice wavering...hey, I'm a professional interior decorator, not a starlet (yet...ha!). I instructed her to create height for the lamp by adding books underneath of it. I was able to show her through pictures and video to not only stack the books, but fan them out and have the insides facing forward, creating interest with color and texture. I have also filled out the look with a few additional accessories...because layering is the name of the game.

My biggest goal in working with clients is to make the most of what they already own. Trends are great, but are just that...trends. Unless you really love the current trends and feel deep.down.inside that you should adopt them as your true style, stick to what you know and are comfortable with. You will not only save money, but your space will more likely be a reflection of you, rather than what you see on television and in magazines. I'm not saying you can't pepper some trends into your home (hello Target Dollar Spot), but just don't feel like you have to spend big bucks to always have your home be on the cutting edge of cool.

Hilary Prall is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.